Effects of fermented tea by Aspergillus cristatus on the characteristic aroma and non‐volatile components of Jiang‐flavor baijiu

Abstract Background Fu Brick tea (FBT) extract has been demonstrated to lower blood lipids, protect liver, and prevent obesity. Despite these benefits, there are no products on the market that combine FBT with other foods or beverages. Result In this study, we developed a novel product by combining FBT with high‐alcohol Jiang‐flavor baijiu, resulting in FBT‐baijiu. High‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS) analysis revealed that FBT‐baijiu contains health‐promoting alkaloids, including eurocristatine (13.60 ± 0.13 mg/L), (−)‐neoechinulin A (10.26 ± 0.09 mg/L), neoechinulin D (7.89 ± 0.05 mg/L), variecolorin G (6.94 ± 0.05 mg/L), and echinulin (25.46 ± 0.27 mg/L), which are known to be present in FBT. The aroma compounds of the FBT‐baijiu and the base baijiu were analyzed using comprehensive gas chromatography‐olfactometry‐mass spectrometry (GC‐O‐MS) technology. The major volatile compounds of two baijiu samples were identified using relative odor activity values (r‐OAVs) analysis. The FBT‐baijiu showed a significant reduction in ester content, but a remarkable enhancement in aromatic properties. The findings show that combining FBT with baijiu not only offers functional components but also enhances the flavor profile. Conclusion This study highlights the potential of utilizing FBT as a functional food ingredient or additive, paving the way for the development of new health‐promoting products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.